Serie A Match Preview: Atalanta vs. Sassuolo

Scoring 2 important goals, Atalanta sealed its 6th undefeated winning streak during a victory against Bologna. This makes the club 2 points short of entering Serie A’s top 5 and qualifying to the Europa League. With its upcoming match pitted against the struggling Sassuolo, it looks like La Dea is on its way to a grand European appearance.

But of course, it will be difficult for Stefano Colantuono not to be satisfied or proud with Atalanta’s performance. Who would have thought that the club, which almost got relegated last season is currently on the verge of playing in a larger audience. However, the Colantuono stressed that qualifying in the Europa League does not only depend on the club’s performance. Such is also determined by the performance of other clubs next week.

Atalanta has already accumulated 46 points under its belt. They trail their nearest rivals, Parma, by a single point and Inter, by 2 points to make it to a much bigger stage. Yet, Colantuono is also aware of how determined these clubs are to retain their current rank. He then emphasized the need for focusing their attention to Sassuolo encounter, which he predicts to be a very difficult game. And perhaps, there is an ounce of truth in Colantuono’s perception of Sassuolo.

Just recently, Eusebi Di Francesco discussed his disappointment over the referee’s decision of not awarding them the penalty. Such opportunity could have given them the momentum to pull off a draw, but to no avail. With the said call, Sassuolo succumbed to defeat. Despite the tragic result, this is also what keeps Colantuono up on his toes. He is aware that Sassuolo will not only seek redemption, but also for a second chance to ensure their appearance next season.

Prediction: Atalanta

In this down the wire match, Atalanta remains to be the heavy favorite of the sports betting provider, 12BET. The club is valued to win at a decent value of 2.19 with 0.5-1 Asian handicap handed over to Sassuolo.